Capelli Stool

The Capelli stool is a lyrical, imaginative place to sit that resembles a Japanese puzzle box. The "fingers" of the stool's two identical halves interlock without any fasteners to form a comfortable, stable, cantilevered structure. Composed of 11 alternating dark- and light-stained hardwood inner plies and Light Ash veneer, this deceptively simple, sculptural stool unfolds and the two halves can be stacked together for easy shipping and storage.

The inspiration for Carol Catalano's innovative design came from a very down-to-earth source. "Most of my work is fairly technical in nature, so I thought it would be fun to take on a project just for fun," Catalano says. "In pondering how to improve on the simple function of a stool I found myself observing the simple act of intertwining the fingers of my hands."

From there, Catalano developed several ideas for the stool by studying the ergonomics of comfortable sitting. Using cardboard and foam models, she and her staff at Catalano Design took the Capelli stool from concept to museum-quality prototype in less than two months. "From the beginning," Catalano says, "the form of the stool was a simple curve that we kept refining until it was comfortable and beautiful."

The Capelli stool is a lyrical, imaginative place to sit that resembles a Japanese puzzle box. The "fingers" of the stool's two identical halves interlock without any fasteners to form a comfortable, stable, cantilevered structure. Composed of 11 alternating dark- and light-stained hardwood inner plies and Light Ash veneer, this deceptively simple, sculptural stool unfolds and the two halves can be stacked together for easy shipping and storage.

The inspiration for Carol Catalano's innovative design came from a very down-to-earth source. "Most of my work is fairly technical in nature, so I thought it would be fun to take on a project just for fun," Catalano says. "In pondering how to improve on the simple function of a stool I found myself observing the simple act of intertwining the fingers of my hands."

From there, Catalano developed several ideas for the stool by studying the ergonomics of comfortable sitting. Using cardboard and foam models, she and her staff at Catalano Design took the Capelli stool from concept to museum-quality prototype in less than two months. "From the beginning," Catalano says, "the form of the stool was a simple curve that we kept refining until it was comfortable and beautiful."

Herman Miller

Based in Michigan with roots dating back to 1905 Herman Miller, is known worldwide for inventive office furniture design for the modern home and workspace. Herman Miller has a strong commitment to quality by being a pioneer of ergonomic office furniture while being a steward of environmental leadership in the manufacturing process. Available in a wide range of styles and colors, Herman Miller offers timeless furniture, high in style and comfort, from desk chairs to tables.

Rated 4 out of
5 by
Designer from
The perfect touchOur remodeled master bath looked stunning, but something was missing. Something simple, artistic, and sculptural. As a designer, I would not settle for just any solution. It had to be the perfect touch. The Capelli Stool is absolutely beautiful. What an ingenious design! This will be a classic collectible.

Date published: 2011-02-21

Rated 5 out of
5 by
CleanDesigner from
Beautiful design. Clean lines, transport to any room in the house. Works in the bathroom, living area, etc. Amazingly comfortable.I would highly recommend this product as one of the key components of your household.